ADR - Alternate Dispute Resolutions
Civil litigation takes a lot of time and money. Courts are backlogged, and it may take several years and many thousands of dollars to reach a final judgement. There are alternate methods of resolving conflicts that give more control over the outcome to the parties themselves. ADR avoid the cost and risk of litigation and usually results in a win-win for both parties involved.
Negotiations, Mediation & Arbitration
A negotiation is an informal and voluntary dispute resolution process between the parties involved without the involvement of a third party. The two parties determine the process, communicate with each other, and reach a mutual acceptable decision. An agreement reached can be written into a contract.
If negotiations do not work, the next step is mediation. Mediation is a process in which the parties appoint a neutral third party to help them reach a solution. The mediator's role is to advise both parties and work between the two parties to find common solution. The cost of mediation is usually shared between the two parties, and the final decision can also be written into a contract.
A more formal process, Arbitration is when parties involved select a neutral third party or a panel of people with specific technical knowledge to find a solution. Both arbitration and negotiations are less costly and more effective.
A more formal process, Arbitration is when parties involved select a neutral third party or a panel of people with specific technical knowledge to find a solution. Both arbitration and negotiations are less costly and more effective.